Cooling Towers & Warm Water Systems

Cooling towers and warm water systems have been linked with the transmission of Legionnaires Disease which may in the worst case be fatal or at least, a serious and debilitating disease.

The Legionella organism multiplies at temperatures ranging from 20-45°C, with maximum growth occurring at between 32-43°C. They can survive freezing but are killed with increasing rapidity as temperatures exceed 45°C. Survival time decreases from hours at 50°C to minutes at 60°C, while at 70°C the organism is destroyed almost immediately.

It is important that the operators of cooling towers and warm water systems install, operate and maintain the systems in a clean condition at all times in accordance with the Australian Standard AS3666 1-3 Air Handling and Water Systems in Buildings.